For some, 2009 will be remembered for the year the Humane Society of United States targeted the Midwest. For Illinois Farm Bureau, we’ll remember it as another year where we successfully fought against junk science and hidden agendas.

IFB’s efforts started in January, when the board of directors made one of the organization’s priorities: build coalitions and develop persuasive messages to tell the producer's story and overcome continuous attacks on modern grain and livestock production. The year ended with a list of accomplishments:

Stopped Anti-Farm-Animal Legislation – Stopped bills banning tail docking and gestation pens from ever reaching the debate floor of the Illinois General Assembly. 

Gave the Flu a Shot in the Arm – Created a website, used online social networks, made calls, sent emails, and wrote letters encouraging the media to call it “H1N1.”

Protected Illinois Livestock from Nuisance Lawsuits – Provided funding and publicity that halted a landmark, nuisance case against a farmer trying to expand his pork operation. 

Spoke Out Against New York & Hollywood – Publicly corrected the half-truths about modern agriculture generated by the New York Times, Time Magazine, and the movie, Food, Inc.

Put Farmers Center Stage in the Livestock Debate – Initiated the Conversations on Animal Care program to help farmers how to tell their story to consumers and the media.

Took Walmart to the Farm – Hosted farm tours to show representatives from the nation’s largest retailer how farmers manage animal care and farm sustainability.

Worked Towards Common-Sense Regulations – Submitted comments on 15 environmental regulatory issues that may impact farming practices.

As a grassroots organization, Illinois Farm Bureau needs your help to continue this kind of work. Call your county Farm Bureau today and discover what opportunities best fit your lifestyle.